Watch Namibia: The Struggle for Liberation

Namibia: The Struggle for Liberation is a 2007 historical drama film set in the 1960s and 1970s during the fight for independence in Namibia, then known as South-West Africa. The movie takes a long view of the struggle, beginning with the early organizing efforts of the South-West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO) and ending with the country's declaration of independence in 1990.

Actor Danny Glover plays Sam Nujoma, the eventual first president of Namibia and leader of the SWAPO movement. The movie follows his journey from a young freedom fighter in exile in Tanzania to his return to Namibia to lead the charge for independence. The story is told through Nujoma's perspective, and the audience sees his personal ups and downs as well as the larger political struggles of the time.

Chrisjan Appollus stars as Johannes, a young Namibian who joins the SWAPO movement and becomes a key player in the fight for independence. Johannes's character is emblematic of the young men and women who were swept up in the movement and risked everything to oppose the apartheid South African regime that occupied their country. Obed Emvula plays a soldier in the South African army who becomes disillusioned with the conflict and eventually defects to the Namibian side.

The movie's themes revolve around the complex and violent struggle for independence. The movie portrays the South African government as brutal and ruthless, and the Namibian fighters as heroic and righteous. However, it also touches on the internal tensions within the SWAPO movement, as well as the difficult choices that Namibians had to make as they fought for their freedom.

The movie is skillfully directed by Charles Burnett, an acclaimed African American filmmaker known for films such as To Sleep with Anger and Killer of Sheep. Burnett brings a quiet intensity to the film, allowing the story and the characters to speak for themselves rather than relying on flashy action sequences or over-the-top melodrama.

Although Namibia: The Struggle for Liberation has a political and historical focus, it also contains moments of humor and tenderness. The characters are well-developed and complex, and the performances are strong throughout. The movie also has an impressive visual aesthetic, with sweeping landscapes and striking contrasts between the desolate beauty of the Namibian desert and the oppressive and violent nature of the conflict.

Overall, Namibia: The Struggle for Liberation is a powerful and emotional film that sheds light on an important chapter in African history. It is a testament to the bravery and resilience of the Namibian people, and a reminder of the ongoing struggles for independence and equality throughout the world. The movie is a must-see for anyone interested in African history or political struggle, and is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences.